Disc therapy

ABSTRACT

A method is provided for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject, the method including implanting at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc, and implanting one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the intervertebral disc. Control circuitry, while electrically coupled to the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, is activated to drive fluid and introduce nutritional substances into the intervertebral disc, by applying a voltage between the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces. Other embodiments are also described.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/392,184, filed Aug. 2, 2021, which is:

(a) a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/332,606, filed Mar. 12, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,097,098, which is the U.S. national stage of International Application PCT/IL2017/051032, filed Sep. 13, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/263,910, filed Sep. 13, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,950,156, and

(b) a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/695,936, filed Nov. 26, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,129,981, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/064,604, filed Jun. 21, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,518,085, which is the US National Stage of International Application PCT/IL2016/051363, filed Dec. 21, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/982,187, filed Dec. 29, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,770,591.

All of the above-mentioned applications are assigned to the assignee of the present application and are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE APPLICATION

The present invention relates generally to therapeutic electrical techniques.

BACKGROUND OF THE APPLICATION

The intervertebral discs form cartilaginous joints between the end plates of vertebrae to provide shock absorption. The discs include two main regions: the nucleus pulposus, which is an inner, soft and highly hydrated structure, and the annulus fibrosus, which is a strong structure including lamellae (concentric sheets of collagen fibers), which surrounds the nucleus. The three major constituents of the discs are water, fibrillar collagens, and aggrecan. The proportion of these components varies across the disc, with the nucleus having a higher concentration of aggrecan and water and a lower collagen content than other regions of the disc. The loss of water content, particularly in the nucleus pulposus, is associated with disc degeneration, and with a decrease in disc height and abnormal loading of other spinal structures.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,577,469 to Gross, which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and is incorporated herein by reference, describes apparatus for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject. The apparatus includes a first electrode, configured to be inserted into a nucleus pulposus of the disc, and a second electrode, configured to be placed outside of the nucleus pulposus, in a vicinity of the nucleus pulposus. A control unit is configured to drive a current between the first and second electrodes, and to configure the current to electroosmotically drive fluid between inside and outside the nucleus pulposus. Other embodiments are also described

US Patent Application Publication 2005/0277996 to Podhajsky describes a method for reducing intervertebral pressure, including providing an electrode, having proximal and distal ends, and a generator, which is operatively connected to the proximal end of the electrode, and is configured to supply radiofrequency current thereto. The method also includes inserting at least a portion of the distal end of the electrode into the nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc and activating the generator to heat the nucleus pulposus. The electrode may be inserted into the intervertebral disc through its first lateral side and/or its second lateral side, and may be substantially parallel to the major or minor axis of the nucleus pulposus.

SUMMARY OF THE APPLICATION

In some embodiments of the present invention, an intervertebral-disc-treatment system is provided for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject. The intervertebral-disc-treatment system comprises (a) an electrode, which is configured to be implanted partially within a nucleus pulposus of the disc, and (b) one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, which are configured to be implanted outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the disc, in a vicinity of an external surface of an annulus fibrosus of the disc. The intervertebral-disc-treatment system further comprises implantable or external control circuitry, which is typically electrically coupled, by one or more electrode leads, to the exposed electrode surfaces and the electrode.

For some applications, the electrode comprises a wire, which typically has a wire diameter of between 50 and 150 microns, such as 100 microns. The wire includes:

-   -   a non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal         segment, which, in the absence of any applied forces, is         helically coiled and typically has (a) a mean pitch of between         1.1 and 2 times the wire diameter, and (b) an entire         longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm, and     -   an electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment, which         typically has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 80         mm, in the absence of any applied forces.

For some applications, the current-application longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter of between 3 and 7 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces.

Typically, because of the above-mentioned dimensions, including the pitch, the current-application longitudinal segment is highly flexible (both in its ability to bend and its ability to longitudinally stretch and contract), which reduces the application of forces on the intervertebral disc, and thus generally causes no or less trauma to the intervertebral disc, including the nucleus pulposus, than a more rigid electrode might cause, particularly over time during repeated motion of the disc.

For some applications, the lead longitudinal segment is coiled, in the absence of any applied forces. For some applications, the lead longitudinal segment has one or more of the following dimensions, in the absence of any applied forces: (a) a mean pitch that is greater than the mean pitch P₁ of the current-application longitudinal segment, (b) a mean pitch of between 2 and 3 times the wire diameter, (c) an outer coil diameter that equals between 90% and 110% of the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, and/or (d) an outer coil diameter of between 3 and 7 times the wire diameter. Typically, providing the above-mentioned pitches enables the thorough application of insulation to the electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment, particularly if a vapor deposition process is used to apply the insulation (e.g., parylene). In addition, the lead longitudinal segment may have a greater pitch than the current-application longitudinal segment in part because the lead longitudinal segment generally does not require as much flexibility as the current-application longitudinal segment.

For some applications, the wire further includes an the intermediate longitudinal segment, which (a) is longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal segment and the lead longitudinal segment, (b) typically has an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 6 mm, in the absence of any applied forces, and (c) in the absence of any applied forces, either (i) is coiled, and has a mean pitch greater than the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, or (ii) is not coiled. For some applications, the intermediate longitudinal segment is electrically insulated along at least a longitudinal portion of the intermediate longitudinal segment. For some applications in which the intermediate longitudinal segment is coiled, the intermediate longitudinal segment has one or more of the following dimensions, in the absence of any applied forces: (a) a mean pitch of between 125% and 250% of the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, (b) a mean pitch of between 5 and 20 times the wire diameter, (c) a mean pitch P₃ that equals (i) at least the mean pitch of the current-application longitudinal segment, and (ii) no more than the mean pitch of the lead longitudinal segment, (d) an outer coil diameter equal to between 90% and 110% of the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, and/or (e) an outer coil diameter of between 3 and 7 times the wire diameter.

For some applications, the wire further includes a pin-connector longitudinal segment. The lead longitudinal segment is longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal segment and the pin-connector longitudinal segment. For these applications, the intervertebral-disc-treatment system typically comprises an electrode assembly, which comprises the electrode and a pin, which is mechanically fixed to and in electrical communication with the pin-connector longitudinal segment. Typically, the area surrounding the pin and the pin-connector longitudinal segment is electrically insulated, such as by silicone.

At least a portion of the electrode is implanted in a body of a subject, typically such that:

-   -   the current-application longitudinal segment is disposed at         least partially in the intervertebral disc of the subject,         typically entirely in the intervertebral disc (either entirely         in the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc, or partially         in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc and partially         in the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc), at least a         portion of the lead longitudinal segment is disposed in the body         of the subject outside the intervertebral disc, and     -   if provided, the intermediate longitudinal segment is disposed         at least in part in the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral         disc; providing the relatively large pitch for the intermediate         longitudinal segment, or not coiling the intermediate         longitudinal segment, may reduce the likelihood that the portion         of the intermediate longitudinal segment that is within the         annulus fibrosus forms a tunnel, which might cause leakage of         fluid from the nucleus pulposus.

In some applications of the present invention, a method of implanting at least a portion of an electrode in a body of a subject is provided, the method comprising:

-   -   inserting a hollow insertion needle into an intervertebral disc         of the subject;     -   aligning an electrode loader with the hollow insertion needle,         while the electrode is preloaded in a hollow loader needle of         the electrode loader, and a loader stylet of the electrode         loader is preloaded partially in the hollow loader needle and         disposed such a distal end of the loader stylet abuts a proximal         end of the electrode;     -   connecting the electrode loader to the hollow insertion needle,         such that a distal end of the hollow loader needle abuts a         proximal end of the hollow insertion needle;     -   advancing the electrode into the hollow insertion needle by         advancing the loader stylet distally within the hollow loader         needle so that the loader stylet pushes the electrode distally         from the hollow loader needle into the insertion needle;     -   aligning a needle-withdrawal handle and a handle stylet thereof         with the hollow insertion needle;     -   connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the hollow insertion         needle;     -   proximally withdrawing the hollow insertion needle from the         intervertebral disc, while holding the needle-withdrawal handle         stationary, and while the handle stylet abuts the proximal end         of the electrode, thereby preventing proximal motion of the         electrode; and     -   proximally withdrawing the needle-withdrawal handle, thereby         releasing the electrode and leaving the electrode implanted         partially in the intervertebral disc and partially in the body         of the subject outside the intervertebral disc.

For some applications, inserting the hollow insertion needle comprises limiting a depth of penetration of the hollow insertion needle into the intervertebral disc by inserting the hollow insertion needle into the intervertebral disc until a spacer, through which the hollow insertion needle passes, contacts an external surface of an annulus fibrosis of the intervertebral disc. For some applications, connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the hollow insertion needle comprises connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the spacer. For some applications, proximally withdrawing the needle-withdrawal handle comprises proximally withdrawing the needle-withdrawal handle while the spacer is attached to the needle-withdrawal handle.

For some applications, the hollow insertion needle is axially fixed to a needle-connection fitting. Connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the hollow insertion needle comprises disposing (a) the needle-connection fitting within the needle-withdrawal handle, and (b) a distal end of the handle stylet within the needle-connection fitting abutting the proximal end of the electrode. Proximally withdrawing the hollow insertion needle comprises proximally withdrawing the needle-connection fitting within the needle-withdrawal handle, while the needle-withdrawal handle is held stationary.

In some applications of the present invention, the intervertebral-disc-treatment system comprises:

at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface, which is configured to be implanted in the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc;

-   -   a plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, which         are configured to be implanted outside the nucleus pulposus, in         electrical communication with the intervertebral disc; and     -   the control circuitry, which is (a) electrically coupled to the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the         plurality of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, (b)         configured to separately control at least two of the plurality         of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces; for example,         the control circuitry may be electrically coupled to the         extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces separately via         separate electrical conductors.

Providing the plurality of separately-controllable the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces distributes the generation of hydrogen, thereby reducing any local build-up of hydrogen at any single electrode surface.

For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-increasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in the pressure-increasing mode of operation, (a) configure the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be a         cathode, and one or more of the plurality of the extra-pulposus         exposed electrode surfaces to be one or more respective anodes,         and (b) electroosmotically drive fluid into the nucleus pulposus         to increase pressure in the intervertebral disc, by applying a         first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V (sometimes known in the         art as the “electrolysis voltage”) between the at least one         intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more of         the plurality of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces,         and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, (a) configure the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an         anode, and the plurality of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be a respective plurality of cathodes, and (b)         generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis, by         applying a second mean voltage of at least 1.23 V between the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the         plurality of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.

The increase in fluid in the nucleus pulposus during the pressure-increasing mode of operation generally treats or prevents further degeneration of the disc caused at least in part by loss of fluid. The applied current may also help introduce nutritional substances into the disc. The generation of oxygen within the nucleus pulposus during the oxygen-generating mode generally treats hypoxia, which, if untreated, sometimes causes disc degeneration. The generation of oxygen may also improve glucose metabolism, while reducing lactic acid generation.

For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to apply direct current, e.g., with an average amplitude of between 1 and 5 mA. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as a series of pulses. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as the series of pulses with a duty cycle of between 1% and 50%.

Typically, the control circuitry is configured to separately control all of the plurality of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces; for example, the control circuitry may be electrically coupled to the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces separately via separate electrical conductors.

For some applications, the control circuitry is configured, during a period of time, to assume (a) the pressure-increasing mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate first duration and (b) the oxygen-generating mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate second duration that is less than 10% of the aggregate first duration. By way of example and not limitation, the control circuitry may assume the oxygen-generating mode of operation for a few seconds every hour, and assume the pressure-increasing mode of operation at other times. Although the control circuitry, when in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, may electroosmotically drive fluid out of the nucleus pulposus and thus decrease pressure in the intervertebral disc, because the aggregate second duration is so much less than the aggregate first duration, the aggregate effect of the application of voltages is an increase in pressure in the intervertebral disc.

For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to, in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis, by applying the second mean voltage between the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and respective different subsets of the plurality of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces at respective different times. For some applications, each of the subsets consists of exactly one of the plurality of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces. Activating the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces at different times further distributes the generation of hydrogen, thereby further reducing any local build-up of hydrogen at any single electrode surface.

In some applications of the present invention, the intervertebral-disc-treatment system comprises:

-   -   at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface, which is         configured to be implanted in the nucleus pulposus of the         intervertebral disc;     -   one or more the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces,         which (a) are configured to be implanted outside the nucleus         pulposus, in electrical communication with the intervertebral         disc, and (b) have an aggregate electrically-exposed surface         area of at least 3 cm2, such as at least 4 cm2, e.g., at least 5         cm2; and     -   the control circuitry, which is electrically coupled to the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and one or         more the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.

For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-increasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in the pressure-increasing mode of operation, (a) configure the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be a         cathode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be one or more respective anodes, and (b)         electroosmotically drive fluid into the nucleus pulposus to         increase pressure in the intervertebral disc, by applying a         first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V between the at least one         intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more         extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, (a) configure the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an         anode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be a respective plurality of cathodes, and (b)         generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis, by         applying a second mean voltage of at least 1.23 V between the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one         or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.

The increase in fluid in the nucleus pulposus during the pressure-increasing mode of operation generally treats or prevents further degeneration of the disc caused at least in part by loss of fluid. The applied current may also help introduce nutritional substances into the disc. The generation of oxygen within the nucleus pulposus during the oxygen-generating mode generally treats hypoxia, which, if untreated, sometimes causes disc degeneration. The generation of oxygen may also improve glucose metabolism, while reducing lactic acid generation. Providing the relatively large aggregate electrically-exposed surface area of at least 3 cm2 distributes the generation of hydrogen, thereby reducing any local build-up of hydrogen at the electrode-tissue interface.

For some applications, the intervertebral-disc-treatment system comprises exactly one extra-pulposus exposed electrode surface having an electrically-exposed surface area of at least 3 cm2. Alternatively, an external surface of a can of the control circuitry serves as the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surface. For other applications, the intervertebral-disc-treatment system comprises a plurality of the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.

For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to apply direct current, e.g., with an average amplitude of between 1 and 5 mA. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as a series of pulses. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as the series of pulses with a duty cycle of between 1% and 50%.

For some applications, the control circuitry is configured, during a period of time, to assume (a) the pressure-increasing mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate first duration and (b) the oxygen-generating mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate second duration that is less than 10% of the aggregate first duration. By way of example and not limitation, the control circuitry may assume the oxygen-generating mode of operation for a few seconds every hour, and assume the pressure-increasing mode of operation at other times. Although the control circuitry, when in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, may electroosmotically drive fluid out of the nucleus pulposus and thus decrease pressure in the intervertebral disc, because the aggregate second duration is so much less than the aggregate first duration, the aggregate effect of the application of voltages is an increase in pressure in the intervertebral disc.

There is therefore provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 1 of the present invention, apparatus for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject, the apparatus including:

at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface, which is configured to be implanted in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc;

a plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, which are configured to be implanted outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the intervertebral disc; and

control circuitry, which is (a) electrically coupled to the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, (b) configured to separately control at least two of the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, and (c) configured to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-increasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in the pressure-increasing mode of operation, (a) configure the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be a         cathode, and one or more of the plurality of extra-pulposus         exposed electrode surfaces to be one or more respective anodes,         and (b) electroosmotically drive fluid into the nucleus pulposus         to increase pressure in the intervertebral disc, by applying a         first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V between the at least one         intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more of         the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, (a) configure the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an         anode, and the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be a respective plurality of cathodes, and (b)         generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis, by         applying a second mean voltage of at least 1.23 V between the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the         plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 2. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 1, wherein the control circuitry is configured to         separately control all of the plurality of extra-pulposus         exposed electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 3. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 1, wherein the first mean voltage is less than 500 mV.         Inventive concept 4. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 3, wherein the first mean voltage is less than 300 mV.         Inventive concept 5. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 1, wherein the second mean voltage is at least 2 V.         Inventive concept 6. The apparatus according to any one of         inventive concepts 1-5, wherein the control circuitry is         configured, during a period of time, to assume (a) the         pressure-increasing mode of operation at least 10 times for an         aggregate first duration and (b) the oxygen-generating mode of         operation at least 10 times for an aggregate second duration         that is less than 10% of the aggregate first duration.         Inventive concept 7. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 6, wherein the aggregate second duration is less than 5%         of the aggregate first duration.         Inventive concept 8. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 7, wherein the aggregate second duration is less than 1%         of the aggregate first duration.         Inventive concept 9. The apparatus according to any one of         inventive concepts 1-5, wherein the plurality of extra-pulposus         exposed electrode surfaces includes at least three         extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 10. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 9, wherein the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed         electrode surfaces includes up to 10 extra-pulposus exposed         electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 11. The apparatus according to any one of         inventive concepts 1-5, wherein the control circuitry is         configured to, in the oxygen-generating mode of operation,         generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis, by         applying the second mean voltage between the at least one         intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and respective         different subsets of the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed         electrode surfaces at respective different times.         Inventive concept 12. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 11, wherein each of the subsets consists of exactly one         of the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 13. The apparatus according to any one of         inventive concepts 1-5, wherein the apparatus further includes a         sensor, which is configured to sense a parameter indicative of a         quantity of the oxygen generated by the electrolysis, and         wherein the control circuitry is configured to modulate the         oxygen-generating mode of operation responsively to the sensed         parameter.         Inventive concept 14. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 13, wherein the control circuitry is configured to         modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating a         duration of one or more occurrences of the oxygen-generating         mode of operation.         Inventive concept 15. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 13, wherein the control circuitry is configured to         modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating         an electrical parameter of the second mean voltage.         Inventive concept 16. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 13, wherein the sensed parameter is an oxygen         concentration in the nucleus pulposus.         Inventive concept 17. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 13, wherein the sensed parameter is a pH in the nucleus         pulposus.

There is further provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 18 of the present invention, apparatus for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject, the apparatus including:

at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface, which is configured to be implanted in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc;

one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, which (a) are configured to be implanted outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the intervertebral disc, and (b) have an aggregate electrically-exposed surface area of at least 1 cm2; and

control circuitry, which is (a) electrically coupled to the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, and (b) configured to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-increasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in the pressure-increasing mode of operation, (a) configure the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be a         cathode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be one or more respective anodes, and (b)         electroosmotically drive fluid into the nucleus pulposus to         increase pressure in the intervertebral disc, by applying a         first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V between the at least one         intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more         extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, (a) configure the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an         anode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be a respective plurality of cathodes, and (b)         generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis, by         applying a second mean voltage of at least 1.23 V between the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one         or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 19. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 18, wherein the aggregate electrically-exposed surface         area is at least 3 cm2.         Inventive concept 20. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 18, wherein the first mean voltage is less than 500 mV.         Inventive concept 21. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 20, wherein the first mean voltage is less than 300 mV.         Inventive concept 22. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 18, wherein the second mean voltage is at least 2 V.         Inventive concept 23. The apparatus according to any one of         inventive concepts 18-22, wherein the control circuitry is         configured, during a period of time, to assume (a) the         pressure-increasing mode of operation at least 10 times for an         aggregate first duration and (b) the oxygen-generating mode of         operation at least 10 times for an aggregate second duration         that is less than 10% of the aggregate first duration.         Inventive concept 24. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 23, wherein the aggregate second duration is less than         5% of the aggregate first duration.         Inventive concept 25. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 24, wherein the aggregate second duration is less than         1% of the aggregate first duration.         Inventive concept 26. The apparatus according to any one of         inventive concepts 18-22, wherein the apparatus includes exactly         one extra-pulposus exposed electrode surface having an         electrically-exposed surface area of at least 1 cm2.         Inventive concept 27. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 26, wherein the surface area of the of the exactly one         extra-pulposus exposed electrode surface is at least 3 cm2.         Inventive concept 28. The apparatus according to any one of         inventive concepts 18-22, wherein the apparatus includes a         plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 29. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 18, wherein the apparatus further includes a sensor,         which is configured to sense a parameter indicative of a         quantity of the oxygen generated by the electrolysis, and         wherein the control circuitry is configured to modulate the         oxygen-generating mode of operation responsively to the sensed         parameter.         Inventive concept 30. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 29, wherein the control circuitry is configured to         modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating a         duration of one or more occurrences of the oxygen-generating         mode of operation.         Inventive concept 31. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 29, wherein the control circuitry is configured to         modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating         an electrical parameter of the second mean voltage.         Inventive concept 32. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 29, wherein the sensed parameter is an oxygen         concentration in the nucleus pulposus.         Inventive concept 33. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 29, wherein the sensed parameter is a pH in the nucleus         pulposus.

There is still further provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 34 of the present invention, a method for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject, the method including:

implanting at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc;

implanting a plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the intervertebral disc; and

activating control circuitry, which is (a) electrically coupled to the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, and (b) configured to separately control at least two of the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-increasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in the pressure-increasing mode of operation, (a) configure the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be a         cathode, and one or more of the plurality of extra-pulposus         exposed electrode surfaces to be one or more respective anodes,         and (b) electroosmotically drive fluid into the nucleus pulposus         to increase pressure in the intervertebral disc, by applying a         first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V between the at least one         intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more of         the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, (a) configure the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an         anode, and the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be a respective plurality of cathodes, and (b)         generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis, by         applying a second mean voltage of at least 1.23 V between the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the         plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 35 of the present invention, a method for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject, the method including:

implanting at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc;

implanting one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the intervertebral disc, the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces having an aggregate electrically-exposed surface area of at least 1 cm2; and

activating control circuitry, which is electrically coupled to the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-increasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in the pressure-increasing mode of operation, (a) configure the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be a         cathode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be one or more respective anodes, and (b)         electroosmotically drive fluid into the nucleus pulposus to         increase pressure in the intervertebral disc, by applying a         first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V between the at least one         intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more         extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, (a) configure the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an         anode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces to be a respective plurality of cathodes, and (b)         generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis, by         applying a second mean voltage of at least 1.23 V between the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one         or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.

There is yet additionally provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 36 of the present invention, apparatus including an electrode, which includes a wire that (a) has a wire diameter of between 75 and 125 microns and (b) includes:

a non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal segment, which, in the absence of any applied forces, is coiled and has (i) a mean pitch of between 1.1 and 2 times the wire diameter, and (ii) an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm, and

an electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment, which has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 80 mm, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 37. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the mean pitch of the current-application longitudinal segment is between 1.2 and 1.8 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 38. The apparatus according to inventive concept 37, wherein the mean pitch of the current-application longitudinal segment is between 1.4 and 1.6 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 39. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the wire diameter is between 90 and 110 microns.

Inventive concept 40. The apparatus according to inventive concept 39, wherein the wire diameter of is between 95 and 105 microns.

Inventive concept 41. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the current-application longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter of between 3 and 7 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 42. The apparatus according to inventive concept 41, wherein the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment is between 4 and 6 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 43. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the current-application longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter of between 400 and 600 microns, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 44. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the entire longitudinal length of the current-application longitudinal segment is between 10 and 25 mm, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 45. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the entire longitudinal length of the electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment is between 10 and 50 mm, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 46. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein, when a central longitudinal axis of a 3-mm long portion of the current-application longitudinal segment is curved in a plane only until all adjacent turns of the coiled wire of the portion touch one another, the central longitudinal axis of the portion has a radius of curvature of between 5 and 10 mm. Inventive concept 47. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the current-application longitudinal segment extends to a distal end of the wire. Inventive concept 48. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment is coated with parylene. Inventive concept 49. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein the lead longitudinal segment is not coiled, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 50. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 36-49, wherein the lead longitudinal segment is coiled, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 51. The apparatus according to inventive concept 50, wherein the lead longitudinal segment has a mean pitch that is greater than the mean pitch of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 52. The apparatus according to inventive concept 51, wherein the mean pitch of the lead longitudinal segment is at least 125% of the mean pitch of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 53. The apparatus according to inventive concept 52, wherein the mean pitch of the lead longitudinal segment is at least 150% of the mean pitch of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 54. The apparatus according to inventive concept 50, wherein the lead longitudinal segment has a mean pitch of between 2 and 3 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 55. The apparatus according to inventive concept 54, wherein the mean pitch of the lead longitudinal segment is between 2.2 and 2.8 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 56. The apparatus according to inventive concept 55, wherein the mean pitch of the lead longitudinal segment is between 2.4 and 2.6 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 57. The apparatus according to inventive concept 50, wherein the lead longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter that equals between 90% and 110% of an outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 58. The apparatus according to inventive concept 57, wherein the outer coil diameter of the lead longitudinal segment equals the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 59. The apparatus according to inventive concept 50, wherein the lead longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter of between 3 and 7 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 60. The apparatus according to inventive concept 59, wherein the outer coil diameter of the lead longitudinal segment is between 4 and 6 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 61. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 36-49, wherein the wire further includes an intermediate longitudinal segment, which (a) is longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal segment and the lead longitudinal segment, (b) has an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 6 mm, in the absence of any applied forces, and (c) in the absence of any applied forces, either (i) is coiled, and has a mean pitch greater than an outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment or (ii) is not coiled. Inventive concept 62. The apparatus according to inventive concept 61, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment is electrically insulated along at least a longitudinal portion of the intermediate longitudinal segment. Inventive concept 63. The apparatus according to inventive concept 61, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment is not coiled, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 64. The apparatus according to inventive concept 61, wherein the entire longitudinal length of the intermediate longitudinal segment is between 2 and 4 mm, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 65. The apparatus according to inventive concept 61, wherein, in the absence of any applied forces, the intermediate longitudinal segment is coiled, and has the mean pitch greater than the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment. Inventive concept 66. The apparatus according to inventive concept 65, wherein the mean pitch of the intermediate longitudinal segment is between 125% and 250% of the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 67. The apparatus according to inventive concept 65, wherein an outer coil diameter of the intermediate longitudinal segment equals between 90% and 110% of the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 68. The apparatus according to inventive concept 67, wherein the outer coil diameter of the intermediate longitudinal segment equals the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 69. The apparatus according to inventive concept 65, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment has a mean pitch of between 5 and 20 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 70. The apparatus according to inventive concept 69, wherein the mean pitch of the intermediate longitudinal segment is between 6 and 13 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 71. The apparatus according to inventive concept 70, wherein the mean pitch of the intermediate longitudinal segment is between 9 and 11 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 72. The apparatus according to inventive concept 65, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter of between 3 and 7 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 73. The apparatus according to inventive concept 72, wherein the outer coil diameter of the intermediate longitudinal segment is between 4 and 6 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 74. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 36-49,

wherein the wire further includes a partially non-electrically-insulated pin-connector longitudinal segment,

wherein the lead longitudinal segment is longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal segment and the pin-connector longitudinal segment, and

wherein the apparatus includes an electrode assembly, which includes the electrode and a pin, which is mechanically fixed to and in electrical communication with the pin-connector longitudinal segment.

Inventive concept 75. The apparatus according to inventive concept 74, wherein the pin is shaped so as to define a lumen.

Inventive concept 76. The apparatus according to inventive concept 75, wherein the pin-connector longitudinal segment is at least partially disposed in the lumen of the pin.

Inventive concept 77. The apparatus according to inventive concept 76, wherein the pin is crimped on the pin-connector longitudinal segment.

Inventive concept 78. The apparatus according to inventive concept 74, wherein the pin-connector longitudinal segment is not coiled, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 79. The apparatus according to inventive concept 78, wherein the pin-connector longitudinal segment is coaxial with a central longitudinal axis of the electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 80. The apparatus according to inventive concept 74, wherein the pin-connector longitudinal segment is coiled, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 81. The apparatus according to inventive concept 80, wherein the pin-connector longitudinal segment has a mean pitch that equals at least 125% of an outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 82. The apparatus according to inventive concept 81, wherein the mean pitch of the pin-connector longitudinal segment is at between 125% and 250% of the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 83. The apparatus according to inventive concept 80, wherein the pin-connector longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter that equals between 90% and 110% of an outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 84. The apparatus according to inventive concept 83, wherein the outer coil diameter of the pin-connector longitudinal segment equals the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 85. The apparatus according to inventive concept 80, wherein the pin-connector longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces, has (a) a mean pitch of between 5 and 20 times the wire diameter, and (b) an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 4 mm. Inventive concept 86. The apparatus according to inventive concept 85, wherein the mean pitch of the pin-connector longitudinal segment is between 5 and 10 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 87. The apparatus according to inventive concept 80, wherein the pin-connector longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter of between 3 and 7 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 88. The apparatus according to inventive concept 87, wherein the outer coil diameter of the pin-connector longitudinal segment is between 4 and 6 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 89. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 36-49,

wherein the wire further includes an intermediate longitudinal segment, which (a) is longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal segment and the lead longitudinal segment, and (b) has an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 6 mm, in the absence of any applied forces, and

wherein the electrode further includes a water-permeable element that surrounds at least a longitudinal portion of the intermediate longitudinal segment.

Inventive concept 90. The apparatus according to inventive concept 89, wherein the water-permeable element includes a membrane.

Inventive concept 91. The apparatus according to inventive concept 89, wherein the water-permeable element includes an acid selected from the group consisting of: glycolic acid and lactic acid.

Inventive concept 92. The apparatus according to inventive concept 89, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment is coiled, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 93. The apparatus according to inventive concept 92, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces, has a mean pitch that equals (a) at least the mean pitch of the current-application longitudinal segment, and (b) no more than the mean pitch of the lead longitudinal segment. Inventive concept 94. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 36-49, further including control circuitry, which is electrically coupled to the electrode, and which is configured to drive the electrode to apply a current.

There is also provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 95 of the present invention, apparatus including an electrode, which includes a wire that (a) has a wire diameter of between 75 and 125 microns and (b) includes a non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal segment, which, in the absence of any applied forces, is coiled and has (i) a mean pitch of between 1.1 and 2 times the wire diameter, and (ii) an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm.

There is further provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 96 of the present invention, apparatus including an electrode, which includes a wire that includes:

a non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal segment, which, in the absence of any applied forces, is coiled and has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm,

an electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment, which has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 80 mm, in the absence of any applied forces, and

an intermediate longitudinal segment, which (a) is longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal segment and the lead longitudinal segment, (b) has an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 6 mm, in the absence of any applied forces, and (c) in the absence of any applied forces, either (i) is coiled, and has a mean pitch greater than an outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment or (ii) is not coiled.

Inventive concept 97. The apparatus according to inventive concept 96, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment is electrically insulated along at least a longitudinal portion of the intermediate longitudinal segment.

Inventive concept 98. The apparatus according to inventive concept 96, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment is not coiled, in the absence of any applied forces.

Inventive concept 99. The apparatus according to inventive concept 96, wherein the wire has a wire diameter of between 75 and 125 microns.

Inventive concept 100. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 96-99, wherein, in the absence of any applied forces, the intermediate longitudinal segment is coiled, and has the mean pitch greater than the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment. Inventive concept 101. The apparatus according to inventive concept 100, wherein the mean pitch of the intermediate longitudinal segment is between 125% and 250% of the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 102. The apparatus according to inventive concept 100, wherein an outer coil diameter of the intermediate longitudinal segment equals between 90% and 110% of the outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 103. The apparatus according to inventive concept 100, wherein in the absence of any applied forces:

the current-application longitudinal segment has a mean pitch of between 1.1 and 2 times a wire diameter of the wire, and

the intermediate longitudinal segment has a mean pitch of between 5 and 20 times the wire diameter.

Inventive concept 104. The apparatus according to inventive concept 100, wherein the intermediate longitudinal segment has an outer coil diameter of between 3 and 7 times the wire diameter, in the absence of any applied forces.

There is still further provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 105 of the present invention, a method including:

providing an electrode, which includes a wire that (a) has a wire diameter of between 75 and 125 microns and (b) includes (i) a non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal segment, which, in the absence of any applied forces, is coiled and has (A) a mean pitch of between 1.1 and 2 times the wire diameter, and (B) an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm, and (ii) an electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 80 mm, in the absence of any applied forces; and

implanting at least a portion of the electrode in a body of a subject.

Inventive concept 106. The method according to inventive concept 105, wherein implanting the at least a portion of the electrode includes implanting the at least a portion of the electrode such that:

the current-application longitudinal segment is disposed at least partially in an intervertebral disc of the subject, and

at least a portion of the lead longitudinal segment is disposed in the body of the subject outside the intervertebral disc.

Inventive concept 107. The method according to inventive concept 106, wherein implanting the at least a portion of the electrode includes implanting the at least a portion of the electrode such that the current-application longitudinal segment is disposed entirely in the intervertebral disc. Inventive concept 108. The method according to inventive concept 107, wherein implanting the at least a portion of the electrode includes implanting the at least a portion of the electrode such that the current-application longitudinal segment is disposed entirely in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc. Inventive concept 109. The method according to inventive concept 107, wherein implanting the at least a portion of the electrode includes implanting the at least a portion of the electrode such that the current-application longitudinal segment is disposed partially in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc and partially in an annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc. Inventive concept 110. The method according to inventive concept 107, wherein the wire further includes an intermediate longitudinal segment, which (a) is longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal segment and the lead longitudinal segment, (b) has an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 6 mm, in the absence of any applied forces, and (c) in the absence of any applied forces, either (i) is coiled, and has a mean pitch greater than an outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment or (ii) is not coiled, and

wherein implanting the at least a portion of the electrode includes implanting the at least a portion of the electrode such that the intermediate longitudinal segment is disposed at least in part in an annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 111 of the present invention, a method including:

providing an electrode, which includes a wire that (a) has a wire diameter of between 75 and 125 microns and (b) includes a non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal segment, which, in the absence of any applied forces, is coiled and has (a) a mean pitch of between 1.1 and 2 times the wire diameter, and (b) an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm; and

implanting at least a portion of the electrode in a body of a subject.

There is yet additionally provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 112 of the present invention, a method including:

providing an electrode, which includes a wire that includes (a) a non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal segment, which, in the absence of any applied forces, is coiled and has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm, (b) an electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment, which has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 80 mm, in the absence of any applied forces, and (c) an intermediate longitudinal segment, which (i) is longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal segment and the lead longitudinal segment, (ii) has an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 6 mm, in the absence of any applied forces, and (iii) in the absence of any applied forces, either (A) is coiled, and has a mean pitch greater than an outer coil diameter of the current-application longitudinal segment or (B) is not coiled; and

implanting at least a portion of the electrode in a body of a subject.

There is also provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 113 of the present invention, a method of manufacturing an electrode, the method including:

providing an electrode, which includes a non-electrically-insulated wire that (A) has a wire diameter of between 75 and 125 microns and (B) includes:

-   -   (a) a current-application longitudinal segment, which, in the         absence of any applied forces, is coiled and has a mean pitch of         between 1.1 and 2 times the wire diameter,     -   (b) a lead longitudinal segment, and     -   (c) an intermediate longitudinal segment, which (i) is         longitudinally between the current-application longitudinal         segment and the lead longitudinal segment, and (ii) in the         absence of any applied forces, either (A) is coiled and has a         mean pitch greater than an outer coil diameter of the         current-application

longitudinal segment or (B) is not coiled;

providing a polymer boot that is shaped so as to define an enclosed space with an opening having a perimeter;

masking a portion of the electrode by placing the boot on the portion of the electrode, such that (a) the current-application longitudinal segment is within the enclosed space, (b) the lead longitudinal segment is outside the boot, and (c) the intermediate longitudinal segment passes through the opening such that the perimeter of the opening forms a tight seal with at least a portion of the intermediate longitudinal segment;

placing the boot and the electrode into a vapor deposition chamber; and

applying a parylene coating to the lead longitudinal segment by vapor deposition within the vapor deposition chamber.

Inventive concept 114. The method according to inventive concept 113, wherein providing the electrode includes providing the electrode in which the current-application longitudinal segment has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 115. The method according to inventive concept 113, wherein providing the electrode includes providing the electrode in which the lead longitudinal segment has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 80 mm, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 116. The method according to inventive concept 113, wherein providing the electrode includes providing the electrode in which the intermediate longitudinal segment has an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 6 mm, in the absence of any applied forces. Inventive concept 117. The method according to inventive concept 113, wherein providing the electrode includes providing the electrode in which, in the absence of any applied forces:

the current-application longitudinal segment has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 35 mm,

the lead longitudinal segment has an entire longitudinal length of between 5 and 80 mm, and

the intermediate longitudinal segment has an entire longitudinal length of between 1 and 6 mm.

Inventive concept 118. The method according to inventive concept 113, wherein providing the polymer boot includes providing a silicone boot.

There is further provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 119 of the present invention, apparatus including an electrode and an implantation system for implanting at least a portion of the electrode in a body of a subject, the implantation system including:

a hollow insertion needle configured to be inserted into an intervertebral disc of the subject;

an electrode loader, which (a) includes (i) a hollow loader needle in which the electrode is configured to be loaded, and (ii) a loader stylet, which is configured to be loaded partially in the hollow loader needle and to be disposed such that a distal end of the loader stylet abuts a proximal end of the electrode, and (b) is configured to be connected to the hollow insertion needle, such that (i) a distal end of the hollow loader needle abuts a proximal end of the hollow insertion needle, and (ii) the loader stylet pushes the electrode distally from the hollow loader needle into the insertion needle when the loader stylet is distally advanced within the hollow loader needle; and

a needle-withdrawal handle, which (a) includes a handle stylet, and (b) is configured (i) to be connected to the hollow insertion needle, (ii) while held stationary, to proximally withdraw the hollow insertion needle from the intervertebral disc while the handle stylet abuts the proximal end of the electrode, thereby preventing proximal motion of the electrode, and (iii) by being proximally withdrawn, to release the electrode and leave the electrode implanted partially in the intervertebral disc and partially in the body of the subject outside the intervertebral disc.

Inventive concept 120. The apparatus according to inventive concept 119, wherein the implantation system further includes a spacer, which is configured to contact an external surface of an annulus fibrosis of the intervertebral disc so as to limit a depth of penetration of the hollow insertion needle into the intervertebral disc, and wherein the hollow insertion needle passes through the spacer. Inventive concept 121. The apparatus according to inventive concept 120, wherein the needle-withdrawal handle is configured to be connected to the hollow insertion needle by connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the spacer. Inventive concept 122. The apparatus according to inventive concept 121, wherein the needle-withdrawal handle is configured to be proximally withdrawn by proximally withdrawing the needle-withdrawal handle while the spacer is attached to the needle-withdrawal handle. Inventive concept 123. The apparatus according to inventive concept 119,

wherein the implantation system further includes a needle-connection fitting, which is axially fixed to the hollow insertion needle,

wherein the needle-withdrawal handle is configured such that when the needle-withdrawal handle is connected to the hollow insertion needle, the needle-connection fitting is disposed within the needle-withdrawal handle, and a distal end of the handle stylet is disposed within the needle-connection fitting abutting the proximal end of the electrode, and

wherein the needle-connection fitting is configured to be proximally withdrawn within the needle-withdrawal handle, while the needle-withdrawal handle is held stationary, so as to proximally withdraw the hollow insertion needle.

There is still further provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 124 of the present invention, a method of implanting at least a portion of an electrode in a body of a subject, the method including:

inserting a hollow insertion needle into an intervertebral disc of the subject;

aligning an electrode loader with the hollow insertion needle, while (a) the electrode is preloaded in a hollow loader needle of the electrode loader, and (b) a loader stylet of the electrode loader is preloaded partially in the hollow loader needle and disposed such that a distal end of the loader stylet abuts a proximal end of the electrode;

connecting the electrode loader to the hollow insertion needle, such that a distal end of the hollow loader needle abuts a proximal end of the hollow insertion needle;

advancing the electrode into the hollow insertion needle by advancing the loader stylet distally within the hollow loader needle so that the loader stylet pushes the electrode distally from the hollow loader needle into the insertion needle;

aligning a needle-withdrawal handle and a handle stylet of the needle-withdrawal handle with the hollow insertion needle;

connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the hollow insertion needle;

proximally withdrawing the hollow insertion needle from the intervertebral disc, while holding the needle-withdrawal handle stationary, and while the handle stylet abuts the proximal end of the electrode so as to prevent proximal motion of the electrode; and

proximally withdrawing the needle-withdrawal handle, thereby releasing the electrode and leaving the electrode implanted partially in the intervertebral disc and partially in the body of the subject outside the intervertebral disc.

Inventive concept 125. The method according to inventive concept 124, wherein inserting the hollow insertion needle includes limiting a depth of penetration of the hollow insertion needle into the intervertebral disc by inserting the hollow insertion needle into the intervertebral disc until a spacer, through which the hollow insertion needle passes, contacts an external surface of an annulus fibrosis of the intervertebral disc. Inventive concept 126. The method according to inventive concept 125, wherein connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the hollow insertion needle includes connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the spacer. Inventive concept 127. The method according to inventive concept 126, wherein proximally withdrawing the needle-withdrawal handle includes proximally withdrawing the needle-withdrawal handle while the spacer is attached to the needle-withdrawal handle. Inventive concept 128. The method according to inventive concept 124,

wherein the hollow insertion needle is axially fixed to a needle-connection fitting,

wherein connecting the needle-withdrawal handle to the hollow insertion needle includes disposing (a) the needle-connection fitting within the needle-withdrawal handle, and (b) a distal end of the handle stylet within the needle-connection fitting abutting the proximal end of the electrode, and

wherein proximally withdrawing the hollow insertion needle includes proximally withdrawing the needle-connection fitting within the needle-withdrawal handle, while the needle-withdrawal handle is held stationary.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 129 of the present invention, apparatus for treating an eye of a subject, the apparatus including:

a first exposed electrode surface, which is configured to be implanted in a vitreous cavity of the eye;

a second exposed electrode surface, which is configured to be implanted in a body of the subject at a site outside the vitreous cavity; and

control circuitry, which is configured to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-decreasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in both the pressure-decreasing mode of operation and the         oxygen-generating mode of operation, configure the first exposed         electrode surface to be an anode, and the second exposed         electrode surface to be a cathode,     -   in the pressure-decreasing mode of operation, electroosmotically         drive fluid from the vitreous cavity to outside the vitreous         cavity to decrease pressure in the vitreous cavity, by applying         a first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V between the first and         the second exposed electrode surfaces, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, generate oxygen         within the vitreous cavity by electrolysis, by applying a second         mean voltage of at least 1.23 V between the first and the second         exposed electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 130. The apparatus according to inventive         concept 129,

wherein the site is within a Schlemm's canal of the subject, and the second exposed electrode surface is configured to be implanted within the Schlemm's canal, and

wherein the control circuitry is configured to, in the pressure-decreasing mode of operation, electroosmotically drive the fluid from the vitreous cavity to the Schlemm's canal to decrease the pressure in the vitreous cavity, by applying the first mean voltage between the first and the second exposed electrode surfaces.

Inventive concept 131. The apparatus according to inventive concept 129, wherein the first mean voltage is less than 500 mV.

Inventive concept 132. The apparatus according to inventive concept 131, wherein the first mean voltage is less than 300 mV.

Inventive concept 133. The apparatus according to inventive concept 129, wherein the second mean voltage is at least 2 V.

Inventive concept 134. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 129-133, wherein the control circuitry is configured, during a period of time, to assume (a) the pressure-decreasing mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate first duration and (b) the oxygen-generating mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate second duration that is less than 10% of the aggregate first duration. Inventive concept 135. The apparatus according to inventive concept 134, wherein the aggregate second duration is less than 5% of the aggregate first duration. Inventive concept 136. The apparatus according to inventive concept 135, wherein the aggregate second duration is less than 1% of the aggregate first duration. Inventive concept 137. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 129-133,

wherein the apparatus further includes a sensor, which is configured to sense a parameter indicative of a quantity of the oxygen generated by the electrolysis, and

wherein the control circuitry is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation responsively to the sensed parameter.

Inventive concept 138. The apparatus according to inventive concept 137, wherein the control circuitry is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating a duration of one or more occurrences of the oxygen-generating mode of operation. Inventive concept 139. The apparatus according to inventive concept 137, wherein the control circuitry is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating an electrical parameter of the second mean voltage. Inventive concept 140. The apparatus according to inventive concept 137, wherein the sensed parameter is an oxygen concentration in the vitreous cavity. Inventive concept 141. The apparatus according to inventive concept 137, wherein the sensed parameter is a pH in the vitreous cavity. Inventive concept 142. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 129-133, wherein the control circuitry is configured to:

detect a pressure difference between the vitreous cavity and outside the vitreous cavity, and

modulate the pressure-decreasing mode of operation responsively to the pressure difference parameter in response to the detected pressure difference.

There is yet additionally provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 143 of the present invention, a method for treating an eye of a subject, the method including:

implanting a first exposed electrode surface in a vitreous cavity of the eye;

implanting a second exposed electrode surface in a body of the subject at a site outside the vitreous cavity; and

activating control circuitry to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-decreasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in both the pressure-decreasing mode of operation and the         oxygen-generating mode of operation, configure the first exposed         electrode surface to be an anode, and the second exposed         electrode surface to be a cathode,     -   in the pressure-decreasing mode of operation, electroosmotically         drive fluid from the vitreous cavity to outside the vitreous         cavity to decrease pressure in the vitreous cavity, by applying         a first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V between the first and         the second exposed electrode surfaces, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, generate oxygen         within the vitreous cavity by electrolysis, by applying a second         mean voltage of at least 1.23 V between the first and the second         exposed electrode surfaces.         Inventive concept 144. The method according to inventive concept         143,

wherein the site is within a Schlemm's canal of the subject, and wherein implanting the second exposed electrode surface includes implanting the second exposed electrode surface within the Schlemm's canal, and

wherein activating the control circuitry includes activating the control circuitry to, in the pressure-decreasing mode of operation, electroosmotically drive the fluid from the vitreous cavity to the Schlemm's canal to decrease the pressure in the vitreous cavity, by applying the first mean voltage between the first and the second exposed electrode surfaces.

The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, taken together with the drawings, in which:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an intervertebral-disc-treatment system for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an electrode of the intervertebral-disc-treatment system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of another configuration of the electrode of FIG. 2 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 3B is a schematic illustration of yet another configuration of the electrode of FIG. 2 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a 3-mm long portion of a current-application longitudinal segment of the electrode of FIG. 2 , FIG. 3A, or FIG. 3B, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of another configuration of the electrode of FIG. 2 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method of manufacturing the electrode of FIG. 2 , of FIG. 3A, or of FIG. 3B, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a polymer boot used in the manufacturing method of FIG. 6 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is schematic illustrations of an implantation system for implanting at least a portion of the electrode of FIG. 2 in a body of a subject, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 9A-B are schematic illustrations of several components of the implantation system of FIG. 8 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of implanting at least a portion of the electrode of FIG. 2 in a body of a subject, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 11A-B are schematic illustrations of a needle insertion step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of an anti-coring stylet retraction step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 13A-C are schematic illustrations of an electrode loader alignment step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 14A-B are schematic illustrations of an electrode-loader connection step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 15A-B are schematic illustrations of an electrode advancement step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 16A-C are schematic illustrations of a needle-withdrawal-handle alignment step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 17A-B are schematic illustrations of a needle-withdrawal-handle connection step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 18A-C are schematic illustrations of an insertion-needle withdrawal step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration of a needle-withdrawal-handle withdrawal step of the implantation method of FIG. 10 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a schematic illustration of the electrode of FIG. 2 implanted partially in the disc and partially in the body of the subject outside the disc, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a schematic illustration of another configuration of the intervertebral-disc-treatment system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of an eye-treatment system for treating an eye of a subject, in accordance with an application of the present invention; and

FIG. 23 is a schematic illustration of a diabetic-retinopathy-treatment system for treating diabetic retinopathy, in accordance with an application of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF APPLICATIONS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 for treating an intervertebral disc 30 of a subject, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 comprises (a) an electrode 22, which is configured to be implanted (typically chronically) partially within a nucleus pulposus 42 of disc 30, and (b) one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44, which are configured to be implanted (typically chronically) outside nucleus pulposus 42, in electrical communication with disc 30, in a vicinity of an external surface of an annulus fibrosus 46 of disc 30, e.g., in physical contact with the external surface or not in physical contact with the external surface. Intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 further comprises implantable (typically chronically implantable) or external control circuitry 50, which is typically electrically coupled, by one or more electrode leads 52, to (a) exposed electrode surfaces 44 and (b) electrode 22, such as via pin 76, described hereinbelow with reference to FIG. 2 .

Typically, a healthcare worker, such as a physician, activates control circuitry 50 to provide the functions described herein. Activating the control circuitry may include configuring parameters and/or functions of the control circuitry (such as using a separate programmer or external controller), or activating the control circuitry to perform functions pre-programmed in the control circuitry. Control circuitry 50 typically comprises appropriate memory, processor(s), and hardware running software that is configured to provide the functionality of the control circuitry described herein.

Reference is made to FIG. 2 , which is a schematic illustration of electrode 22, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Electrode 22 comprises a wire 60, which typically has a wire diameter D_(W) of at least 50 microns (more typically at least 75 microns, such as at least 90 microns, e.g., at least 95 microns), no more than 150 microns (more typically no more than 125 microns, such as no more than 110 microns, e.g., no more than 105 microns), and/or between 50 microns (more typically 75 microns, such as 90 microns, e.g., 95 microns) and 150 microns (more typically 125 microns, such as 110 microns, e.g., 105 microns), such as 100 microns.

Wire 60 includes:

-   -   a non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal         segment 62, which, in the absence of any applied forces, is         helically coiled (referred to simply as “coiled” herein,         including in the claims) and typically has (a) a mean pitch P₁         of at least 1.1 (e.g., at least 1.2, such as at least 1.4), no         more than 2 (e.g., no more than 1.8, such as no more than 1.6),         and/or between 1.1 and 2 (e.g., between 1.2 and 1.8, such as         between 1.4 and 1.6, e.g., 1.5) times the wire diameter D_(W),         and (b) an entire longitudinal length L₁ of at least 5 mm (e.g.,         at least 10 mm), no more than 35 mm (e.g., no more than 25 mm),         and/or between 5 and 35 mm (e.g., between 10 and 25 mm), and     -   an electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment 64, which         typically has an entire longitudinal length L₂ of at least 5 mm         (e.g., at least 10 mm), no more than 80 mm (e.g., no more than         50 mm), and/or between 5 and 80 mm (e.g., between 10 and 50 mm),         in the absence of any applied forces.

As used in the present application, including in the claims, the pitch of a coil is the distance from any point on the coil to the corresponding point on an adjacent coil measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis. As used in the present application, including in the claims, the longitudinal length of segment is measured in a line along a central longitudinal axis of the segment (rather than being measured around the coil itself of the wire).

Typically, current-application longitudinal segment 62 extends to a distal end 66 of wire 60. For some applications, electrode 22 has a total length of at 50 mm (e.g., at least 70 mm), no more than 110 mm (e.g., no more than 90 mm), and/or between 50 and 110 mm (e.g., between 70 and 90 mm), such as 80 mm.

For some applications, electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment 64 is coated with parylene, or another biocompatible non-conducting material known in the art.

For some applications, current-application longitudinal segment 62 has an outer coil diameter C₁ of at least 3 (e.g., at least 4), no more than 7 (e.g., no more than 6), and/or between 3 and 7 (e.g., between 4 and 6), e.g., 5, times the wire diameter D_(W), in the absence of any applied forces. Alternatively or additionally, for some applications, the outer coil diameter C₁ is at least 400 microns (e.g., at least 450 microns), no more than 600 microns (e.g., no more than 550 microns), and/or between 400 and 600 microns (e.g., between 450 and 550 microns), e.g., 500 microns, in the absence of any applied forces.

Typically, because of the above-mentioned dimensions, including the pitch, current-application longitudinal segment 62 is highly flexible (both in its ability to bend and its ability to longitudinally stretch and contract), which reduces the application of forces on intervertebral disc 30, and thus generally causes no or less trauma to intervertebral disc 30, including nucleus pulposus 42, than a more rigid electrode might cause, particularly over time during repeated motion of the disc.

For some applications, lead longitudinal segment 64 is coiled, in the absence of any applied forces, such as shown in the figures. For some applications, lead longitudinal segment 64 has one or more of the following dimensions, in the absence of any applied forces:

-   -   a mean pitch P₂ that is greater than (such as at least 125% of,         e.g., at least 150% of, at least 175% of, at least 200% of, or         at least 250% of) the mean pitch P₁ of current-application         longitudinal segment 62,     -   a mean pitch P₂ of at least 2 (e.g., at least 2.2, such as at         least 2.4), no more than 3 (e.g., no more than 2.8, such as no         more than 2.6), and/or between 2 and 3 (e.g., between 2.2 and         2.8, such as between 2.4 and 2.6), e.g., 2.5, times the wire         diameter D_(W), an outer coil diameter C₂ that equals between         90% and 110% (e.g., 100%) of the outer coil diameter C₁ of         current-application longitudinal segment 62, and/or     -   an outer coil diameter C₂ of at least 3 (e.g., at least 4), no         more than 7 (e.g., no more than 6), and/or between 3 and 7         (e.g., between 4 and 6), e.g., 5, times the wire diameter D_(W).

Typically, providing the above-mentioned pitches enables the thorough application of insulation to electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment 64, particularly if a vapor deposition process is used to apply the insulation (e.g., parylene). In addition, lead longitudinal segment 64 may have a greater pitch than current-application longitudinal segment 62 in part because lead longitudinal segment 64 generally does not require as much flexibility as current-application longitudinal segment 62.

For other applications, lead longitudinal segment 64 is not coiled, in the absence of any applied forces; for example, lead longitudinal segment 64 may be straight or zigzag-shaped (configurations not shown).

For some applications, wire 60 further includes an intermediate longitudinal segment 70, which (a) is longitudinally between current-application longitudinal segment 62 and lead longitudinal segment 64, (b) typically has an entire longitudinal length L₃ of at least 1 mm (e.g., at least 2 mm), no more than 6 mm (e.g., no more than 4 mm), and/or between 1 and 6 mm (e.g., between 2 and 4 mm), in the absence of any applied forces, and (c) in the absence of any applied forces, either (i) is coiled, and has a mean pitch P₃ greater than outer coil diameter C₁ of current-application longitudinal segment 62, as shown in FIG. 2 , or (ii) is not coiled, as shown in FIGS. 3A-B. (As used in the present application, including the claims, when a segment is described as “longitudinally between” two other segments, the segment is not necessarily adjacent to the two other segments. In other words, additional segments, which may or may not be mentioned, may longitudinally intervene between the segment and one or both of the two other segments.)

For some applications, intermediate longitudinal segment 70 is electrically insulated along at least a longitudinal portion of intermediate longitudinal segment 70.

For some applications in which intermediate longitudinal segment 70 is coiled, intermediate longitudinal segment 70 has one or more of the following dimensions, in the absence of any applied forces:

-   -   a mean pitch P₃ of at least 125%, no more than 250%, and/or         between 125% and 250% of the outer coil diameter C₁ of         current-application longitudinal segment 62,     -   a mean pitch P₃ of at least 5 (e.g., at least 6, such as at         least 9), no more than 20 (e.g., no more than 13, such as no         more than 11), and/or between 5 and 20 (e.g., between 6 and 13,         such as between 9 and 11), e.g., 10, times the wire diameter         D_(W),     -   a mean pitch P₃ that equals (a) at least mean pitch P₁ of         current-application longitudinal segment 62, and (b) no more         than mean pitch P₂ of lead longitudinal segment 64,     -   an outer coil diameter C₃ equal to between 90% and 110% (e.g.,         100%) of the outer coil diameter C₁ of current-application         longitudinal segment 62, and/or     -   an outer coil diameter C₃ of at least 3 (e.g., at least 4), no         more than 7 (e.g., no more than 6), and/or between 3 and 7         (e.g., between 4 and 6) times the wire diameter D_(W).

Reference is now made to FIG. 3A, which is a schematic illustration of another configuration of electrode 22, in accordance with an application of the present invention. This configuration is the same as the configuration described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 2 , except that intermediate longitudinal segment 70 is not coiled, in the absence of any applied forces.

For some applications, wire 60 further includes a partially non-electrically-insulated pin-connector longitudinal segment 72. Lead longitudinal segment 64 is longitudinally between current-application longitudinal segment 62 and pin-connector longitudinal segment 72. For these applications, intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 typically comprises an electrode assembly 74, which comprises electrode 22 and a pin 76, which is mechanically fixed to and in electrical communication with pin-connector longitudinal segment 72. Pin 76 and pin-connector longitudinal segment 72 are permanently connected, typically by welding (e.g., laser or spot welding).

For some applications, such as shown, pin-connector longitudinal segment 72 is coaxial with a central longitudinal axis 80 of electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment 64, in the absence of any applied forces.

For some applications, such as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3A, pin-connector longitudinal segment 72 is coiled, in the absence of any applied forces. For some of these applications, such as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3A, coiled pin-connector longitudinal segment 72 is welded to the outside of pin 76.

For some applications, pin-connector longitudinal segment 72 has one or more of the following dimensions, in the absence of any applied forces:

-   -   a mean pitch P₄ that equals at least 125%, no more than 250%,         and/or between 125% and 250% of the outer coil diameter C₂ of         current-application longitudinal segment 62,     -   a mean pitch P₄ of at least 5, no more than 20 (e.g., no more         than 10, such as no more than 7), and/or between 5 and 20 (e.g.,         between 5 and 10, such as between 3 and 7 times), e.g., 7, times         the wire diameter D_(W),     -   an outer coil diameter C₄ that equals between 90% and 110%         (e.g., 100%) of the outer coil diameter C₂ of         current-application longitudinal segment 62.     -   an outer coil diameter C₄ of at least 3 (e.g., at least 4), no         more than 7 (e.g., no more than 6), and/or between 3 and 7         (e.g., between 4 and 6), e.g., 5, times the wire diameter D_(W),         and/or     -   an entire longitudinal length L₄ of between 1 and 4 mm.

Reference is now made to FIG. 3B, which is a schematic illustration of yet another configuration of electrode 22, in accordance with an application of the present invention. In this configuration, pin 76 is shaped as a tube 77 that defines a lumen. An end portion 78 of pin-connector longitudinal segment 72 may be a straight section located along the axis of pin-connector longitudinal segment 72. For example, the connection may be fixated by crimping the tube of pin 76 on the wire of pin-connector longitudinal segment 72. The coating (e.g., parylene coating) covers this section as well. Typically, the only part of pin 76 that is not be coated is the proximal end thereof, which serves as an electrical connector pin (by being insertable into a female electrical connector, typically after the electrode has been implanted). The electrical path is thus electrically connected to the control circuitry 50 and insulated from the body. For some applications, a seal 82 (e.g., comprising silicone) is provided that surrounds the connector/pin interface with electrode lead 52 to control circuitry 50. Optionally, seal 82 is shaped so as to define wings 84, which may be used to anchor the system.

For some applications, one or more of current-application longitudinal segment 62, lead longitudinal segment 64, intermediate longitudinal segment 70, and pin-connector longitudinal segment 72 has an inner coil diameter of at least 0.25 (e.g., at least 0.27), no more than 0.36 (e.g., no more than 0.33), and/or between 0.25 and 0.36 (e.g., between 0.27 and 0.33), e.g., 0.6, times the respective outer coil diameter of the segment, in the absence of any applied forces.

Typically, wire 60 has the same diameter D_(W) along all of current-application longitudinal segment 62, lead longitudinal segment 64, intermediate longitudinal segment 70, and pin-connector longitudinal segment 72. Alternatively, diameter D_(W) varies between one or more of current-application longitudinal segment 62, lead longitudinal segment 64, intermediate longitudinal segment 70, and/or pin-connector longitudinal segment 72.

For some applications, the coil of one or more longitudinal segments of electrode 22 is filled with a pharmaceutical, such as an antibiotic pharmaceutical, an anti-inflammation pharmaceutical, or an analgesic pharmaceutical.

Reference is now made to FIG. 4 , which is a schematic illustration of a 3-mm long portion 90 of current-application longitudinal segment 62, in accordance with an application of the present invention. This configuration is applicable to the configurations of electrode 22 of FIGS. 2, 3 , and/or 5. For some applications, when a central longitudinal axis 92 of 3-mm long portion 90 (measured along central longitudinal axis 92 when the portion is straight, in the absence of any applied forces) of current-application longitudinal segment 62 is curved in a plane only until all adjacent turns 94 of coiled wire 60 of portion 90 touch one another, central longitudinal axis 92 of the portion has a radius of curvature R_(C) of at least 5 mm, no more than 10 mm, and/or between 5 and 10 mm.

Such a radius of curvature provides current-application longitudinal segment 62 with the flexibility to curve and flex. If, on the one hand, adjacent turns 94 of coiled wire 60 instead touched one other in the absence of any applied forces, current-application longitudinal segment 62 would not have such flexibility to curve. If, on the other hand, mean pitch P₁ of current-application longitudinal segment 62 were substantially larger, current-application longitudinal segment 62 might be too stiff.

For some applications, lead longitudinal segment 64 has the curvature parameters described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 4 .

Reference is now made to FIG. 5 , which is a schematic illustration of another configuration of electrode 22, in accordance with an application of the present invention. In this configuration, electrode 22 further comprises a water-permeable element 96 that runs along at least a longitudinal portion 98 of intermediate longitudinal segment 70, thereby enhancing fluid flow through annulus fibrosus 46 caused by the application of the voltage, to a level greater than possible through other portions of annulus fibrosus 46. For some applications, water-permeable element 96 comprises a membrane. Alternatively or additionally, for some applications, water-permeable element 96 comprises an acid selected from the group consisting of: glycolic acid and lactic acid. For some applications, water-permeable element 96 is pre-attached to longitudinal portion 98. Alternatively, water-permeable element 96 may be placed separately into the bore through annulus fibrosus 46.

For some of these applications, intermediate longitudinal segment 70 is coiled, in the absence of any applied forces, such as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 2 , and water-permeable element 96 is disposed within the channel defined by the coil. Alternatively or additionally, intermediate longitudinal segment 70 is partially or entirely embedded in intermediate longitudinal segment 70.

Reference is again made to FIG. 1 . At least a portion of electrode 22 is implanted in a body of a subject, typically such that:

-   -   current-application longitudinal segment 62 is disposed at least         partially in intervertebral disc 30 of the subject, typically         entirely in intervertebral disc 30 (either entirely in nucleus         pulposus 42 of intervertebral disc 30, or partially in a nucleus         pulposus of intervertebral disc 30 and partially in annulus         fibrosus 46 of intervertebral disc 30, as shown in FIG. 1 ),     -   at least a portion of lead longitudinal segment 64 is disposed         in the body of the subject outside intervertebral disc 30, and     -   if provided, intermediate longitudinal segment 70 is disposed at         least in part in annulus fibrosus 46 of intervertebral disc 30;         providing the relatively large pitch for intermediate         longitudinal segment 70, or not coiling intermediate         longitudinal segment 70 (as described hereinabove with reference         to FIG. 3 ), may reduce the likelihood that the portion of         intermediate longitudinal segment 70 that is within annulus         fibrosus 46 forms a tunnel, which might cause leakage of fluid         from nucleus pulposus 42.

Reference is now made to FIG. 6 , which is a flow chart illustrating a method 100 of manufacturing electrode 22, in accordance with an application of the present invention, and to FIG. 7 , which is a schematic illustration of a polymer boot 102 used in manufacturing method 100, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Manufacturing method 100 may be used to manufacture the configurations of electrode 22 of FIGS. 2, 3 , and/or 5. Manufacturing method 100 begins at an electrode provision step 110 by providing electrode 22, in any of the configurations described hereinabove that include intermediate longitudinal segment 70, before electrically-insulated lead longitudinal segment 64 has been coated with an electrically-insulating coating. As mentioned above, intermediate longitudinal segment 70, in the absence of any applied forces, either (a) is coiled and has a mean pitch P₃ that is greater than an outer coil diameter C₁ of current-application longitudinal segment 62 or (b) is not coiled.

At a polymer boot provision step 112, polymer boot 102 is provided; for some applications, polymer boot 102 comprises a silicone boot. Polymer boot 102 is shaped so as to define an enclosed space 116 with an opening 118 having a perimeter.

At masking step 120, a portion 126 of electrode 22 is masked by placing boot 102 on portion 126 of electrode 22, such that:

-   -   current-application longitudinal segment 62 is within enclosed         space 116,     -   lead longitudinal segment 64 is outside boot 102, and     -   intermediate longitudinal segment 70 passes through opening 118         such that the perimeter of opening 118 forms a tight seal with         at least a portion of intermediate longitudinal segment 70.

At a vapor deposition chamber step 130, boot 102 and electrode 22 are placed into a vapor deposition chamber 134 (which is illustrated highly schematically in FIG. 7 ). At a parylene coating step 140, a parylene coating (or another biocompatible non-conducting material known in the art) is applied to lead longitudinal segment 64 by vapor deposition within deposition chamber 134, as is known in the vapor deposition art. Boot 102 and electrode 22 are removed from vapor deposition chamber 134, and boot 102 is removed from electrode 22.

This masking technique, in combination with the geometry of electrode 22, solves the problem of how to tightly mask current-application longitudinal segment 62 during vapor deposition of electrically-insulating parylene onto lead longitudinal segment 64. The perimeter of opening 118 of boot 102, when applied to the high-coil-pitch, or coil-lacking, intermediate longitudinal segment 70, tightly squeezes the intermediate longitudinal segment, thereby preventing gaseous leakage of the parylene into the boot and onto current-application longitudinal segment 62. Such tight squeezing would not be possible if intermediate longitudinal segment 70 were more tightly coiled (i.e., had a lower coil pitch).

Reference is now made to FIG. 8 , which is schematic illustrations of an implantation system 200 for implanting at least a portion of electrode 22 in a body of a subject, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Implantation system 200 may be used to implant the configurations of electrode 22 of FIGS. 2, 3 , and/or 5. Implantation system 200 comprises the following components, each of which is described in detail hereinbelow:

-   -   a hollow insertion needle 210, which, at a proximal end thereof,         is axially fixed to a needle-connection fitting 212; insertion         needle 210 is used for inserting electrode 22 partially into         intervertebral disc 30, as described hereinbelow with reference         to FIGS. 11A-B; typically, insertion needle 210 has a length of         between 60 and 120 mm, such as between 80 and 100 mm, e.g., 90         mm;     -   a spacer 216, which defines a channel therethrough for insertion         of insertion needle 210 from a proximal side 218 of spacer 216         to a distal side 220 of spacer 216, until needle-connection         fitting 212 abuts proximal side 218 of spacer 216; spacer 216         serves to limit a depth of penetration of insertion needle 210,         as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 11A-B;     -   an electrode loader 224, which is used to advance electrode 22         into insertion needle 210, as described hereinbelow with         reference to FIGS. 13A-15B; and     -   a needle-withdrawal handle 228, which is used to withdrawn         insertion needle 210 from disc 30 after delivery of electrode 22         into the disc, as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS.         16A-18C.

For some applications, one or more (e.g., all) of the components of implantation system 200 are provided as a kit, typically in sterile packaging 202. The components of implantation system 200 may be provided in various stages of assembly, depending on packaging needs and other factors. Typically, electrode 22 is also provided in the kit, such as in the same sterile packaging 202 as the components of implantation system 200.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 9A-B, which are schematic illustrations of several components of implantation system 200, in accordance with an application of the present invention. FIG. 9A shows needle-withdrawal handle 228 attached to spacer 216, while insertion needle 210 passes through the channel of spacer 216. FIG. 9A also shows needle-connection fitting 212 fixed to insertion needle 210 and disposed within needle-withdrawal handle 228. FIG. 9B shows the relationship of the above-mentioned components.

Reference is now made to FIG. 10 , which is a flow chart illustrating a method 240 of implanting at least a portion of electrode 22 in a body of a subject, in accordance with an application of the present invention, and FIGS. 11A-20 , which are schematic illustrations of steps of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Implantation method 240 may be used to implant the configurations of electrode 22 of FIGS. 2, 3 , and/or 5. Implantation method 240 uses implantation system 200, described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9A-B.

FIGS. 11A-B are schematic illustrations of a needle insertion step 242 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Before inserting insertion needle 210 into intervertebral disc 30, insertion needle 210 (which is axially fixed to a needle-connection fitting 212) is inserted through spacer 216. For example, needle-connection fitting 212 may be female, in which case needle-connection fitting 212 typically comprises a female Luer taper. Spacer 216 serves to limit a depth penetration of insertion needle 210, so that the insertion needle does not penetrate the far side of annulus fibrosus 46 of disc 30. Optionally, a length of spacer 216 is adjustable, or a set of spacers 216 having different respective lengths is provided, in order to accommodate discs 30 of different sizes.

Also before inserting insertion needle 210 into intervertebral disc 30, an anti-coring stylet 244 is inserted through needle-connection fitting 212 and spacer 216 and into insertion needle 210, with the distal end of anti-coring stylet 244 advanced to the distal end of insertion needle 210. For some applications, anti-coring stylet 244 has a beveled distal end 246 that conforms to the beveled distal end of insertion needle 210.

At needle insertion step 242, insertion needle 210 (with anti-coring stylet 244 therein) is partially inserted into disc 30, until spacer 216 contacts an external surface of annulus fibrosus 46. After insertion, the distal end of insertion needle 210 (and the distal end of anti-coring stylet 244) typically is near, but does not penetrate, the far side of annulus fibrosus 46. Alternatively, the distal end of insertion needle 210 (and the distal end of anti-coring stylet 244) is inserted into the far side of annulus fibrosus 46, e.g., to ultimately allow electrode 22 serve as an anchor. For some applications, the angle of penetration of the insertion needle is about 30 degrees.

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of an anti-coring stylet 244 retraction step 248 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. At anti-coring stylet 244 retraction step 248, anti-coring stylet 244 is retracted, leaving insertion needle 210 in disc 30, and spacer 216 contacting the external surface of annulus fibrosus 46.

FIGS. 13A-C are schematic illustrations of an electrode loader alignment step 252 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Electrode loader 224 comprises an electrode-loader connection fitting 254, which, for example, may be male, in which case electrode-loader connection fitting 254 typically comprises a male Luer taper, which is mounted near a distal end of a hollow loader needle 256. Typically, loader needle 256 has a length of between 60 and 120 mm, such as between 80 and 100 mm, e.g., 90 mm.

Electrode 22 is loaded in loader needle 256, with a distal end of electrode 22 disposed near a distal end of loader needle 256. Electrode loader 224 also comprises a loader stylet 258, which is loaded partially within loader needle 256 and disposed such that a distal end of loader stylet 258 abuts a proximal end of electrode 22 (typically a proximal end of pin 76 of electrode 22). Typically, loader stylet 258 is not beveled at its distal end (i.e., it typically has a straight distal end). Loader stylet 258 is held in place by a connecting element 260, which may comprise a Luer connector, such that the distal end of loader stylet 258 can push electrode 22 distally, as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 15A-B. At electrode loader alignment step 252, electrode loader 224 is aligned with insertion needle 210.

FIGS. 14A-B are schematic illustrations of an electrode-loader connection step 264 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. At electrode-loader connection step 264, electrode loader 224 is connected to insertion needle 210, such as by connecting electrode-loader connection fitting 254 to needle-connection fitting 212, such as, for example, by way of rotation. As a result of this connection, a distal end of loader needle 256 abuts a proximal end of insertion needle 210.

FIGS. 15A-B are schematic illustrations of an electrode advancement step 268 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. At electrode advancement step 268, loader stylet 258 is gently advanced distally within loader needle 256 and pushes electrode 22 distally from loader needle 256 into insertion needle 210, which, as mentioned above, is disposed partially in disc 30. For example, electrode 22 may penetrate about 2 cm into disc 30. Electrode-loader connection fitting 254 is disconnected from needle-connection fitting 212, at an electrode-loader disconnection step 272 (not shown), and electrode loader 224 is removed.

FIGS. 16A-C are schematic illustrations of a needle-withdrawal-handle alignment step 276 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Needle-withdrawal handle 228 comprises a handle stylet 278, which is typically axially fixed within the needle-withdrawal handle. At needle-withdrawal-handle alignment step 276, needle-withdrawal handle 228 and handle stylet 278 are aligned with insertion needle 210 (and spacer 216).

FIGS. 17A-B are schematic illustrations of a needle-withdrawal-handle connection step 282 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. At needle-withdrawal-handle connection step 282, needle-withdrawal handle 228 is connected to insertion needle 210, such as by connecting needle-withdrawal handle 228 to spacer 216 (such as by friction, snapping on, and/or rotation). Upon the connection being made, needle-connection fitting 212 is disposed within needle-withdrawal handle 228, near a distal end of the needle-withdrawal handle, and the distal end of handle stylet 278 is disposed within needle-connection fitting 212 abutting the proximal end of electrode 22 (typically the proximal end of pin 76 of electrode 22).

FIGS. 18A-C are schematic illustrations of an insertion-needle withdrawal step 286 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. At insertion-needle withdrawal step 286, needle-connection fitting 212 is withdrawn proximally within needle-withdrawal handle 228, while needle-withdrawal handle 228 is held stationary. As mentioned above with reference to FIGS. 11A-B, insertion needle 210 is axially fixed to needle-connection fitting 212. As a result, needle-connection fitting 212, as it is proximally withdrawn, withdraws insertion needle 210 from disc 30 (insertion needle 210 is slidable with respect to spacer 216). Handle stylet 278, which is axially fixed with respect to needle-withdrawal handle 228 and abuts the proximal end of electrode 22, prevents proximal motion of electrode 22. As a result, electrode 22 remains generally axially stationary, partially inserted in disc 30.

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration of a needle-withdrawal-handle withdrawal step 290 of implantation method 240, in accordance with an application of the present invention. At needle-withdrawal-handle withdrawal step 290, needle-withdrawal handle 228, with spacer 216 still attached thereto, is gently withdrawn proximally, thereby releasing electrode 22 and leaving electrode 22 implanted partially in disc 30 and partially in the body of the subject outside the disc.

FIG. 20 is a schematic illustration of electrode 22 implanted partially in disc 30 and partially in the body of the subject outside the disc, in accordance with an application of the present invention. For example, about 2 cm of electrode 22 may be disposed in disc 30, and the remainder (e.g., about 5 to 6 cm) may be disposed outside the disc.

Reference is again made to FIG. 1 . In some applications of the present invention, intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 comprises:

-   -   at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 (which         is electrically conductive), which is configured to be implanted         in nucleus pulposus 42 of intervertebral disc 30;     -   a plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44         (e.g., at least 3, no more than 10, and/or between 3 and 10,         such as exactly 3), which are configured to be implanted outside         nucleus pulposus 42, in electrical communication with         intervertebral disc 30; and     -   control circuitry 50, which is (a) electrically coupled to the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 and         the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces         44, (b) configured to separately control at least two of the         plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44; for         example, control circuitry 50 may be electrically coupled to the         extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces separately via         separate electrical conductors.

Providing the plurality of separately-controllable extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44 distributes the generation of hydrogen, thereby reducing any local build-up of hydrogen at any single electrode surface.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-increasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in the pressure-increasing mode of operation, (a) configure the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 to be         a cathode, and one or more of the plurality of extra-pulposus         exposed electrode surfaces 44 to be one or more respective         anodes, and (b) electroosmotically drive fluid into nucleus         pulposus 42 to increase pressure in intervertebral disc 30, by         applying a first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V (sometimes         known in the art as the “electrolysis voltage”) (e.g., less than         1 V, such as less than 500 mV, e.g., less than 300 mV) between         the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280         and the one or more of the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed         electrode surfaces 44, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, (a) configure the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 to be an         anode, and the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces 44 to be a respective plurality of cathodes, and (b)         generate oxygen within nucleus pulposus 42 by electrolysis, by         applying a second mean voltage of at least 1.23 V (e.g., at         least 1.5 V, such as at least 2 V) between the at least one         intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 and the plurality         of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44.

The increase in fluid in nucleus pulposus 42 during the pressure-increasing mode of operation generally treats or prevents further degeneration of the disc caused at least in part by loss of fluid. The applied current may also help introduce nutritional substances into the disc. The generation of oxygen within nucleus pulposus 42 during the oxygen-generating mode generally treats hypoxia, which, if untreated, sometimes causes disc degeneration. The generation of oxygen may also improve glucose metabolism, while reducing lactic acid generation.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to apply direct current, e.g., with an average amplitude of between 1 and 5 mA. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as a series of pulses. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as the series of pulses with a duty cycle of between 1% and 50%.

Typically, control circuitry 50 is not configured to actively balance the applied positive and negative charges. Rather, control circuitry 50 is configured to allow the passive balancing of the applied positive and negative charges.

Typically, control circuitry 50 is configured to separately control all of the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44; for example, control circuitry 50 may be electrically coupled to the extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces separately via separate electrical conductors.

For some applications, as shown in FIG. 1 , the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 comprises non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal segment 62 of electrode 22, described hereinabove. Alternatively, the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 does not comprise non-electrically-insulated current-application longitudinal segment 62 of electrode 22; instead, another electrode is provided; for example, electrodes may be used that are described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,577,469 and/or U.S. application Ser. No. 14/982,187, filed Dec. 29, 2015, which published as US Patent Application Publication 2017/0182317, both of which are assigned to the assignee of the present application and incorporated herein by reference, and are optionally implanted during a conventional surgical procedure to repair disc 30 and/or nucleus pulposus 42, including a standard approach for inserting a needle in disc 30. Alternatively, an electrode known in the art is used.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured, during a period of time, to assume (a) the pressure-increasing mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate first duration and (b) the oxygen-generating mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate second duration that is less than 10% (e.g., less than 5%, such as less than 1%) of the aggregate first duration. By way of example and not limitation, control circuitry 50 may assume the oxygen-generating mode of operation for 1-30 seconds (e.g., 1-30 seconds every hour), and assume the pressure-increasing mode of operation at other times. Although control circuitry 50, when in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, may electroosmotically drive fluid out of nucleus pulposus 42 and thus decrease pressure in intervertebral disc 30, because the aggregate second duration is so much less than the aggregate first duration, the aggregate effect of the application of voltages is an increase in pressure in intervertebral disc 30.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to, in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, generate oxygen within nucleus pulposus 42 by electrolysis, by applying the second mean voltage between the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 and respective different subsets of the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44 at respective different times. For some applications, each of the subsets consists of exactly one of the plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44. Activating extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44 at different times further distributes the generation of hydrogen, thereby further reducing any local build-up of hydrogen at any single electrode surface.

For some applications, intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 further comprises a sensor, which is configured to sense a parameter indicative of a quantity of the oxygen generated by the electrolysis. Control circuitry 50 is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation responsively to the sensed parameter. For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating a duration of one or more occurrences of the oxygen-generating mode of operation. Alternatively or additionally, control circuitry 50 is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating an electrical parameter of the second mean voltage (e.g., the voltage, amplitude, duty cycle, and/or frequency). For some applications, the sensed parameter is an oxygen concentration in nucleus pulposus 42 and/or a pH in nucleus pulposus 42. The sensor may be provided in the application of the present invention described immediately hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 1 and 21 .

Reference is still made to FIG. 1 , and is additionally made to FIG. 21 , which is a schematic illustration of another configuration of intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20, in accordance with an application of the present invention. In some applications of the present invention, intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 comprises:

-   -   at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280, which         is configured to be implanted in nucleus pulposus 42 of         intervertebral disc 30;     -   one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44,         which (a) are configured to be implanted outside nucleus         pulposus 42, in electrical communication with intervertebral         disc 30, and (b) have an aggregate electrically-exposed surface         area of at least 3 cm2, such as at least 4 cm2, e.g., at least 5         cm2; and     -   control circuitry 50, which is electrically coupled to the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 and one         or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-increasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in the pressure-increasing mode of operation, (a) configure the         at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 to be         a cathode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces 44 to be one or more respective anodes, and (b)         electroosmotically drive fluid into nucleus pulposus 42 to         increase pressure in intervertebral disc 30, by applying a first         mean voltage of less than 1.23 V (e.g., less than 1 V, such as         less than 500 mV, e.g., less than 300 mV) between the at least         one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 and the one or         more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, (a) configure the at         least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 to be an         anode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode         surfaces 44 to be a respective plurality of cathodes, and (b)         generate oxygen within nucleus pulposus 42 by electrolysis, by         applying a second mean voltage of at least 1.23 V (e.g., at         least 2 V) between the at least one intra-pulposus exposed         electrode surface 280 and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed         electrode surfaces 44.

The increase in fluid in nucleus pulposus 42 during the pressure-increasing mode of operation generally treats or prevents further degeneration of the disc caused at least in part by loss of fluid. The applied current may also help introduce nutritional substances into the disc. The generation of oxygen within nucleus pulposus 42 during the oxygen-generating mode generally treats hypoxia, which, if untreated, sometimes causes disc degeneration. The generation of oxygen may also improve glucose metabolism, while reducing lactic acid generation. Providing the relatively large aggregate electrically-exposed surface area of at least 3 cm2 distributes the generation of hydrogen, thereby reducing any local build-up of hydrogen at the electrode-tissue interface.

For some applications, such as shown in FIG. 21 , intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 comprises exactly one extra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 44 having an electrically-exposed surface area of at least 3 cm2. Alternatively, an external surface of a can of control circuitry 50 serves as extra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 44 (configuration not shown). For other applications, such as shown in FIG. 1 , intervertebral-disc-treatment system 20 comprises a plurality of extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to apply direct current, e.g., with an average amplitude of between 1 and 5 mA. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as a series of pulses. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as the series of pulses with a duty cycle of between 1% and 50%.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured, during a period of time, to assume (a) the pressure-increasing mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate first duration and (b) the oxygen-generating mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate second duration that is less than 10% (e.g., less than 5%, such as less than 1%) of the aggregate first duration. By way of example and not limitation, control circuitry 50 may assume the oxygen-generating mode of operation for a few seconds every hour, and assume the pressure-increasing mode of operation at other times. Although control circuitry 50, when in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, may electroosmotically drive fluid out of nucleus pulposus 42 and thus decrease pressure in intervertebral disc 30, because the aggregate second duration is so much less than the aggregate first duration, the aggregate effect of the application of voltages is an increase in pressure in intervertebral disc 30.

Reference is again made to FIGS. 1 and 21 . For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to drive intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280 and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44 to electroosmotically drive fluid between inside and outside nucleus pulposus 42 based on a circadian cycle of the subject. For some applications, a housing containing control circuitry 50 is injectable, with an anchor at the proximal end. One or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces 44 are fixed to an external surface of the housing. For example, the housing may be implanted immediately posterior to the spinal column. For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to be implanted subcutaneously, if the housing containing the control circuitry is small. Alternatively, for some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to be implanted or elsewhere in the subject's body, if the housing of the control circuitry is larger (e.g., includes batteries).

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is driven by an external controller that is in wireless or wired communication with control circuitry 50. For some applications, the external controller is mounted on a bed of the subject (e.g., disposed within a mattress), and is configured to activate control circuitry 50 only at night, and/or only when the subject is sleeping. Such nighttime activation may coincide with and support the filling phase of the disc, and thus be therapeutic even though the patient experiences more pain during the day. Alternatively or additionally, control circuitry 50 is activated during the daytime, i.e., over the course of the day, because the pressure is higher in the disc during application of vertical and mechanical load on the disc, which causes the disc to lose fluid; the activation may this reduce maximum damage to the disc. Further alternatively, the control circuitry is activated generally constantly or regularly intermittently (e.g., one hour on/one hour off). For some applications, control circuitry 50 is activated during rest of the subject, rather than during activity; for example, an accelerometer may be provided to identify movement vs. rest of the subject.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to provide the subject with control of activation of control circuitry 50, e.g., in response to activity or pain. For example, the control may be provided from the subject's telephone (e.g., smartphone) or other electronic device.

For some applications, the method further comprises replacing nucleus pulposus 42 with an artificial substitute material before implanting intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface 280.

A first experiment was conducted on behalf of the inventors to study the feasibility of using some of the techniques described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 to hydrate and dehydrate a spinal disc, and the impact of the voltage application on the disc mass. The experiment evaluated three electrical protocols: (a) negative voltage inside the nucleus pulposus of the disc vs. outside the disc, (b) positive voltage inside the nucleus pulposus of the disc vs. outside the disc, and (c) control (no voltage applied to the nucleus pulposus of the disc). It was found that application of a negative voltage inside the nucleus pulposus of the disc enhanced the hydration of the disc, as compared to a positive voltage or no voltage. No dehydration effect was observed with application of a positive voltage to the nucleus pulposus.

The experiment used a total of six fresh bovine tail discs. In order to achieve equilibrium, the discs were placed in a saline solution for a period of one hour prior to application of the voltages. The discs were then weighed. The discs were randomly assigned to the experimental groups as follows: (a) two specimens—negative voltage inside the nucleus pulposus of the disc vs. outside the disc, (b) two specimens—positive voltage inside the nucleus pulposus of the disc vs. outside the disc, and (c) two specimens—control (no voltage applied to the nucleus pulposus of the disc).

The discs were placed inside a vessel and fully submerged in saline solution. One electrode was inserted in the approximate center of the nucleus pulposus of each of the discs in experimental groups (a) and (b). The electrode was electrically-insulated except at its tip, and was designed to allow submersion in liquid. The electrode was inserted laterally (i.e., through the annulus of the disc). A second, ring electrode was placed within the saline solution surrounding the disc.

Voltages of (a) −1 V and (b) +1 V were applied between the electrodes in the two experimental groups (a) and (b), respectively. These voltages were selected to be lower than the electrolysis voltage of water of about 1.2 V. After a period of two hours, the discs were removed and weighed again.

As set forth in Table 1 below, all of the discs increased in mass during the voltage-application period. The mass of the discs to which the negative internal voltage was applied increased by 4.7% and 5.5%, while the mass of the other discs (positive internal voltage and control) increased by between 2.0% and 2.6%.

The inventors hypothesize that all of the discs absorbed liquid, while the application of the negative internal voltage contributed to an additional absorption of 2-3%. The application of the positive internal voltage did not result in dehydration of the disc.

TABLE 1 Mass after 1 Mass after 2 Mass Mass Disc hour immersion Voltage hours voltage change change # [g] (internal) application [g] [g] [%] 1 3.342 −1 V 3.527 0.185 5.5% 2 4.384 −1 V 4.590 0.206 4.7% 3 6.552 +1 V 6.720 0.168 2.6% 4 4.558 +1 V 4.651 0.093 2.0% 5 7.346 0 7.531 0.185 2.5% 6 6.074 0 6.209 0.135 2.2%

A second experiment was conducted on behalf of the inventors to study the feasibility of using some of the techniques described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 to hydrate a spinal disc and the impact of the voltage application on the disc mass. The experiment evaluated two electrical protocols: (a) negative voltage inside the nucleus pulposus of the disc vs. outside the disc, and (b) control (no voltage applied to the nucleus pulposus of the disc). It was found that application of a negative voltage inside the nucleus pulposus of the disc enhanced the hydration of the disc, as compared to no voltage. Higher voltage markedly increased the mass gain.

The experiment used a total of six fresh bovine tail discs. The discs were randomly assigned to the experimental groups as follows: (a) three specimens—negative voltage inside the nucleus pulposus of the disc vs. outside the disc, and (b) three specimens—control (no voltage applied to the nucleus pulposus of the disc).

The discs were weighed, and then placed inside a vessel and fully submerged in saline solution. One electrode was inserted in the approximate center of the nucleus pulposus of each of the discs in the experimental group (a). The electrode was electrically-insulated except at its tip, and was designed to allow submersion in liquid. The electrode was inserted laterally (i.e., through the annulus of the disc). A second, ring electrode was placed within the saline solution surrounding the disc.

A voltage of −1 V was applied between the electrodes in the experimental group (a). One hour after the beginning of application of the voltage, a first pair of two of the discs (one negative voltage, one control) were removed and weighed. In the two remaining negative voltage discs, the voltage was increased to −3 V.

Two hours after the beginning of application of the voltage, a second pair of two of the discs (one negative voltage, one control) were removed and weighed.

Three hours after the beginning of application of the voltage, a third pair of two of the discs (one negative voltage, one control) were removed and weighed.

As set forth in Table 2 below, all of the discs increased in mass during the voltage-application period. In each pair, the disc to which the voltage was applied increased in mass more than the control disc did. Increasing the voltage from −1 V to −3 V resulted in a markedly increased mass gain. It was noted, however, that the −3 V voltage application resulted in electrolysis of the solution, which was expected since the electrolysis threshold of water is about 1.2 V. This electrolysis was observed as bubbles and discoloration in the solution.

The inventors hypothesize that all of the discs absorbed liquid, while the application of the negative internal voltage contributed to an additional absorption.

TABLE 2 Starting Duration of Ending Mass Disc mass Voltage voltage mass change # [g] (internal) application [g] [%] 1 6.047 −1 V 1 hour  6.345 4.93% 2 6.227 0 1 hour  6.420 3.10% 3 5.988 −1 V, −3 V 2 hours 6.605 10.30%  4 5.192 0 2 hours 5.444 4.85% 5 4.484 −1V, −3 V 3 hours 5.262 17.35%  6 4.236 0 3 hours 4.619 9.04%

The inventors hypothesize that application of −3 V, although possibly not suitable for clinical use, served as a proxy for the effectiveness of longer-term voltage application at a lower voltage, such as −1 V.

As mentioned above, the discs were placed in a saline-dye solution during the experiment. The dye was methylene blue. After weighing the discs, the discs were also dissected and inspected for dye penetration. In general, dye penetration was not observed in the discs.

Reference is now made to FIG. 22 , which is a schematic illustration of an eye-treatment system 300 for treating an eye 310 of a subject, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Eye-treatment system 300 is typically used for treating glaucoma. Eye-treatment system 300 comprises:

-   -   a first exposed electrode surface 320, which is configured to be         implanted in a vitreous cavity 322 of eye 310;     -   a second exposed electrode surface 324, which is configured to         be implanted in a body of the subject at a site 326 outside         vitreous cavity 322; and     -   control circuitry 350, which is typically electrically coupled,         by one or more electrode leads 352, to first and second exposed         electrode surfaces 320 and 324.

For some applications, control circuitry 350 is configured to:

-   -   repeatedly assume a pressure-decreasing mode of operation in         alternation with an oxygen-generating mode of operation,     -   in both the pressure-decreasing mode of operation and the         oxygen-generating mode of operation, configure first exposed         electrode surface 320 to be an anode, and second exposed         electrode surface 324 to be a cathode,     -   in the pressure-decreasing mode of operation, electroosmotically         drive fluid from vitreous cavity 322 to outside vitreous cavity         322 to decrease pressure in vitreous cavity 322, by applying a         first mean voltage of less than 1.23 V (e.g., less than 1 V,         such as less than 500 mV, e.g., less than 300 mV) between first         and second exposed electrode surfaces 320 and 324, and     -   in the oxygen-generating mode of operation, generate oxygen         within vitreous cavity 322 by electrolysis, by applying a second         mean voltage of at least 1.23 V (e.g., at least 2 V) between         first and second exposed electrode surfaces 320 and 324.

The decrease in fluid in vitreous cavity 322 during the pressure-decreasing mode of operation generally treats glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure. The generation of oxygen within vitreous cavity 322 during the oxygen-generating mode treats diabetic retinopathy, in which insufficient oxygen is naturally provided to the retina.

For some applications, site 326 is within a Schlemm's canal 354 of the subject, and second exposed electrode surface 324 is configured to be implanted within Schlemm's canal 354. In these applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to, in the pressure-decreasing mode of operation, electroosmotically drive the fluid from vitreous cavity 322 to Schlemm's canal 354 to decrease the pressure in vitreous cavity 322, by applying the first mean voltage between first and second exposed electrode surfaces 320 and 324.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured, during a period of time, to assume (a) the pressure-decreasing mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate first duration and (b) the oxygen-generating mode of operation at least 10 times for an aggregate second duration that is less than 10% (e.g., less than 5%, such as less than 1%) of the aggregate first duration.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to apply direct current, e.g., with an average amplitude of between 1 and 5 mA. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as a series of pulses. For some applications, the control unit is configured to apply the direct current as the series of pulses with a duty cycle of between 1% and 50%.

For some applications, eye-treatment system 300 further comprises a sensor, which is configured to sense a parameter indicative of a quantity of the oxygen generated by the electrolysis. Control circuitry 50 is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation responsively to the sensed parameter. For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating a duration of one or more occurrences of the oxygen-generating mode of operation. Alternatively or additionally, control circuitry 50 is configured to modulate the oxygen-generating mode of operation by modulating an electrical parameter of the second mean voltage (e.g., the voltage, amplitude, duty cycle, and/or frequency). For some applications, the sensed parameter is an oxygen concentration in vitreous cavity 322 and/or a pH in vitreous cavity 322.

For some applications, control circuitry 50 is configured to detect a pressure difference between vitreous cavity 322 and outside vitreous cavity 322, and modulate the pressure-decreasing mode of operation responsively to the pressure difference parameter in response to the detected pressure difference.

Reference is now made to FIG. 23 , which is a schematic illustration of a diabetic-retinopathy-treatment system 400 for treating diabetic retinopathy, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Diabetic-retinopathy-treatment system 400 comprises control circuitry 420 and one or more electrodes 430 (e.g., at least 2, no more than 20, and/or between 2 and 20). The one or more electrodes 430 are configured to be implanted penetrating a retina 440 of eye 310 (as shown), or placed against an external surface of retina 440 (i.e., the surface facing into the interior of the eye) (configuration not shown).

Control circuitry 420 is configured to generate oxygen within retina 440 by electrolysis, by (a) configuring the one or more electrodes 430 to be anodes, and (b) applying a mean voltage of at least 1.23 V (e.g., at least 1.5 V, such as at least 2 V) between the one or more electrodes 430 and one or more return cathodes 444 (e.g., an electrically-conductive casing of control circuitry 420). The generated oxygen treats diabetic retinopathy, which is characterized by damage to blood vessels in the retina, which reduces the oxygen supply to the retina.

For some applications, diabetic-retinopathy-treatment system 400 comprises an antenna 446, which is configured to wirelessly receive energy for powering control circuitry 420. For example, antenna 446 may have an annular shape and be mounted around a lens 448 of the eye, either the natural lens or an intraocular lens (IOL) that is implanted to serve as a support for antenna 446. Alternatively, antenna 446 has a different structure and/or is implanted at a different site in the eye or near the eye. Antenna 446 may be connected to control circuitry 420 by one or more conductive wires 449.

Typically, electrodes 430 are implanted near a macula 442 of retina 440, most typically not on macula 442 itself, in order to avoid interfering with the patient's vision. For example, as shown, diabetic-retinopathy-treatment system 400 may comprise a ring 450 that is sized to be placed around macula 442, and electrodes 430 are fixed at different respective sites along ring 450 around macula 442. Optionally, control circuitry 420 is also disposed along, or slightly outside, ring 450.

In some applications of the present invention, the techniques and apparatus described herein are combined with techniques and apparatus described in one or more of the following applications, which are assigned to the assignee of the present application and are incorporated herein by reference:

-   -   U.S. Pat. No. 8,577,469 to Gross;     -   US Patent Application Publication 2014/0324128 to Gross; and     -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/982,187, filed Dec. 29,         2015, which published as US Patent Application Publication         2017/0182317.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not in the prior art, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject, the method comprising: implanting at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc; implanting one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the intervertebral disc; and while control circuitry is electrically coupled to the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, activating the control circuitry to drive fluid and introduce nutritional substances into the intervertebral disc, by applying a voltage between the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.
 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to configure the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be a cathode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to be one or more respective anodes.
 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to drive the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to improve glucose metabolism in the intervertebral disc.
 4. The method according to claim 3, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to improve the glucose metabolism by driving the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis.
 5. The method according to claim 3, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to configure the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an anode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to be one or more respective cathodes.
 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to drive the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to reduce lactic acid generation in the intervertebral disc.
 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to reduce the lactic acid generation by driving the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis.
 8. The method according to claim 6, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to configure the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an anode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to be one or more respective cathodes.
 9. A method for treating an intervertebral disc of a subject, the method comprising: implanting at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface in a nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc; implanting one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the intervertebral disc; and while control circuitry is electrically coupled to the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces, activating the control circuitry to improve glucose metabolism and reduce lactic acid generation in the intervertebral disc, by applying a voltage between the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces.
 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to improve the glucose metabolism and reduce the lactic acid generation by driving the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to generate oxygen within the nucleus pulposus by electrolysis.
 11. The method according to claim 9, wherein activating the control circuitry comprises activating the control circuitry to configure the at least one intra-pulposus exposed electrode surface to be an anode, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to be one or more respective cathodes. 